Historical information

Part of a collection of historic wallpapers collected by Phyllis Murphy, most of whose wallpapers were donated to the collection of Historic Houses Sydney. This wallpaper sample, annotated and encased in mylar was used by Phyllis for educational purposes, and donated by her son to Villa Alba Museum's collection in 2025.

Physical description

Two early 20th century Art Nouveau friezes. The top frieze is 1909 Art Nouveau, made in England by Walker, Carver Ltd. It was an inexpensive design, printed on ungrounded paper. It features a pattern of roses in muted lavender and grey tones set against a vibrant, textured red-pink background. The design is characterized by the whiplash curves and stylised organic forms typical of the Art Nouveau movement.
The bottom frieze was made in the USA by Janeway & Carpender, New Brunswick, Phil'a & Chicago. This specific design features stylised pink roses set within green medallions, a classic motif of the Art Nouveau period.

Inscriptions & markings

P. F16 (a-h)